TCCC Receives Hybrid Truck for Training           

Hybrid and electric cars are no longer a Jetson-like fantasy, and with emerging technology comes a need for a highly skilled workforce. Tri-County Community College (TCCC) recently bought a 2009 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid from Jacky Jones GMC in Murphy to provide hybrid, electric, and alternative fuel vehicle training to its students.

The college acquired the truck as part of its agreement with the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and Region A Southwestern Commission. Jacky Jones GMC also donated towards the purchase of the truck.

“The curriculum for TCCC’S Automotive Technology program is constantly evolving,” Marcus said. “We have to train our students in this new technology because hybrid and electric cars are totally different than other vehicles.”

The 23 miles-per-gallon hybrid truck will be used for TCCC Automotive instruction purposes. The college also purchased a $14,000 battery tester for hybrid and electric vehicles with ARC grant money.

“Hybrid and electric cars are here to stay,” Marcus said. “Charging stations are being constructed at businesses, shopping centers, and even fast food restaurants.”

Popularity, as well as demand, has grown for hybrid and electric cars over the past few years. Edmunds reported that hybrid and electric vehicles may account for as much as 8 percent of new vehicle sales in the United States in 2013.

Marcus predicts that salaries for his graduates will increase because of the advanced training offered at the college and the increase in hybrid and electric sales.

“There is such a great demand for auto technicians who have electronic skills,” TCCC President Dr. Donna Tipton-Rogers said. “Our new classes will provide the training that dealerships and independent garages are looking for in new hires.”

Automotive technicians already in the field can also receive hybrid and electric vehicle training through TCCC’s continuing education department. For more information about TCCC’s Automotive Technology program, contact Keith Marcus at 835-4250.

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Photo tagline: As a result of the increasing popularity of hybrid and electric vehicles, TCCC recently purchased a hybrid truck from Jacky Jones GMC in Murphy to be used for Automotive Technology instructional purposes.  Pictured above are: Jon Fullerton, owner of Jacky Jones Superstore in Murphy, Ray Loudermilk, Jacky Jones sales representative, Keith Marcus, TCCC Automotive Technology instructor, and Dr. Donna Tipton-Rogers, TCCC President.